These toys for learning and skill development are made for budding baby geniuses

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Every parent wants to help their children hit developmental milestones. 

Playtime is an opportunity for kids to grow and learn. But there are endless toys on the market that promise to turn kids into baby geniuses. Luckily, parents and cohosts of In The Know’s Parenting Wins, Andrea and Jose have found the best toys designed to help children cultivate new skills. 

“As your child grows you want to make sure they are playing with enriching toys that will help them learn and develop new skills,” Andrea said. 

1. The Play Kits by Lovevery 

A toy subscription box, like Lovevery’s, is a perfect solution for busy parents and small children (ages zero to 36 months). You can just “set it and forget it” and receive a new playset every few months. 

“These are just really beautiful hand-crafted toys,” Andrea said. “I really love this because it’s a subscription service. It comes directly to your door every two to three months.” 

Each subscription box is curated with age-appropriate toys to help kids learn at different stages. Not to mention every box is eco-friendly. The wood used to create the toys come from renewable resources, the cotton is organic and even the shipping is carbon neutral. 

“You can feel really good about your child playing with these products, about them being in your home and you know that it’s a win-win for everyone when your child is playing with safe, healthy products for the environment and themselves,” Andrea said. 

2. The Melissa & Dough Counting Caterpillar 

The Counting Caterpillar stacking toy for ages two and up is a great way to lay the foundation for future math whizzes and athletes alike.

“It’s segmented, it’s 10 different colors and numbers,” Jose explained. “What I love about this is it gives you number recognition and hand-eye coordination. Your motor skills are off the charts. It’s just really good for imaginary play which I think is fantastic,” Jose said.

3. The InnyBin by Fatty Brain

The InnyBin is a 2020 Toy of the Year finalist. The toy for newborns and young toddlers is designed to spark curiosity, develop motor skills and encourage kids to explore and experiment. 

“I love this item in particular because it has these adorable six blocks and they come in all different stages with these really fascinating textures for little children,” Andrea said.

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